3 Way Spaghetti
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti dish with a rich meat sauce infused with spices, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, topped with cheese and fresh onions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet or pot.
- Drain off the grease from the meat mixture.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the meat mixture and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer for at least 4 hours, stirring occasionally; the longer it cooks, the better the flavor.
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti noodles.
- Top with raw chopped onions and lots of grated Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. If you don’t have ground beef, ground turkey is a great substitute. To enhance the dish, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or mushrooms when browning the meat. For a unique twist, serve with the meat sauce over a bed of polenta instead of spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 3 Way Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Mozzarella 'N Beef Casserole for a hearty dinner option. For a family-friendly meal, offer grated Parmesan cheese alongside the Cheddar for those who prefer a different cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover 3 Way Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also use the microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Way Spaghetti contains roughly 1313 calories, with 43g protein, 258g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (262% of the Daily Value), iron (180% of the Daily Value), and calcium (128% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1177mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier version. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat you choose.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too watery?
If the sauce is too watery after simmering, you can thicken it by adding a tablespoon of flour mixed with some water or cornstarch. Allow it to simmer for a few additional minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to develop even more. You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving over freshly cooked spaghetti.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).